Wild Valley Huts

From the site, hike up through the woods to Pystyll Rhaedr Waterfall (two hours’ walk), or follow more challenging routes to Caider Bronwen (an hour and 10 minutes) for stunning views over the Berwyn Mountains. Travelling with kids? Take them pony trekking around the perimeter of Lake Vyrnwy (35 minutes’ drive), follow the woodland sculpture trail for easy family walks, or venture out on the water in a dinghy. If you’re brave enough to try wild swimming (perhaps not in winter), Llyn Tegid lake is the spot for you. Bala Adventure and Watersports Centre (both 40 minutes) has a huge range of watery activities available, from windsurfing to kayaking, as well as archery, raft building, abseiling and gorge walking back on dry land – in short, something to suit almost everybody. Visit historic Shrewsbury (50 minutes) to explore its Norman castle, abbey and half-timbered medieval buildings. In Chester (an hour and five minutes), you can circumnavigate the ancient Roman walls, tour the Roman amphitheatre, or treat the kids to a day watching the animal antics at Chester Zoo (an hour and 10 minutes).